27/08/2026
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๐๐๐๐๐ โจ๐ฑ
The Agriculture Students Association (ASA) proudly participated in the Student Leadership Development Program (SLDP) 2026, anchored on the meaningful theme, โRooted in Tradition, Leading the Future: Cultivating Strong Student Leaders through Unity and Culture.โ ๐ฟ
Just like agriculture, leadership requires strong roots, patience, care, and continuous growth. The program provided student leaders with meaningful opportunities to learn, reflect, connect, and strengthen the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become responsible and purpose-driven leaders. It served as a platform for young leaders to deepen their understanding of service, accountability, teamwork, community involvement, and the importance of preserving culture while embracing the future.
The program commenced with an opening prayer led by Ashley Landero, Councilor of the University Student Council โ Calinog Campus, setting a reflective and meaningful atmosphere for the day's leadership journey. This was followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, WVSU Hymn, and Calinog Hymn, via multimedia, highlighting patriotism, institutional pride, and community identity.
During the opening remarks, Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras-Leda, PhD., Campus Administrator, warmly welcomed the participants and emphasized the significance of leadership development in shaping responsible, capable, and community-oriented student leaders. This was followed by a message from Rachel N. Manajero, Municipal Administrator, who reminded the participants that leadership goes beyond titles and positions. The discussion emphasized the values of service, accountability, teamwork, responsibility, and active participation in the community.
The program also featured insightful sessions from the 602nd Maneuver Company, RMFB6, based in Brgy. Alibunan, Calinog, Iloilo. Police Lieutenant PAT Abdonnie R. Ditucalan discussed responsible student leadership and the importance of sound decision-making and proper guidance. PAT Jeric Bon Consolacion focused on safety and crisis preparedness, emphasizing awareness, preparedness, calm decision-making, and coordinated action during challenging situations. Meanwhile, PAT Ellen Mae Amar discussed Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC), promoting awareness, respect, prevention, and the responsibility of young leaders in creating safe and respectful communities. PAT Loordelyn Pareja also discussed drug awareness and prevention, encouraging students to make responsible choices and become advocates for healthy and productive communities.
Adding inspiration to the program was Monica Centena, SKMF Council and SK Chairperson of Cabagiao, who shared her experiences in youth and community leadership. Her message gave participants a glimpse into the realities of serving others and emphasized that genuine leadership is built through dedication, courage, teamwork, responsibility, and a sincere willingness to serve.
The learning continued through sessions led by Chona Lyn C. Contreras, Population Program Officer I of Calinog, who discussed the conduct survey on Adolescent Data Form and highlighted the importance of accurate and reliable adolescent data in developing effective programs and services. Ruth A. Lujan, AHYD Coordinator, inspired participants through a discussion on leadership as a continuous journey of learning, serving, communicating, and working with others. Meanwhile, Maria Shalene P. Hidalgo introduced the participants to the Creative Industries, emphasizing the value of creativity, innovation, skills, and cultural expression in creating opportunities and shaping future careers.
The program concluded with inspiring closing remarks from Hon. Patrick Luceno, President of SKMF Calinog, who emphasized the continuing responsibility of young leaders to transform the lessons they gain into meaningful action and service.
For the Agriculture Students Association, SLDP 2026 was more than just a leadership programโit was an opportunity to grow, connect, and be reminded of the true essence of leadership. As future agriculturists and community leaders, we carry with us the responsibility to nurture not only the land but also the people and communities we serve.
The ASA โ Agriculture Students Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the organizers, speakers, resource persons, community representatives, and fellow student leaders who made this meaningful learning experience possible. May the lessons and experiences from SLDP 2K26 serve as seeds of action, cultivating leaders who are grounded in their values, united by culture, strengthened by service, and ready to lead the future. ๐ฑ๐
โ๏ธ: Arnold E. Alvarez
๐จ: Rainer C. Abiado
